DAWSON WAGNER

Multimedia Communications Specialist and Educator

EDUCATION

B.S. Mass Communication

- May 2022

M.S. Mass Communication

- August 2025

EMAIL:

WHO I AM

I am a passionate communicator and media enthusiast. I just finished my Master of Science in Mass Communications at Kansas State University. With a background in tv, radio, digital media, and emerging technologies, I’m deeply invested in the future of broadcasting and storytelling.

At K-State, I serve as a Multimedia Instructor, where I help students develop their communication and media skills. Additionally, I’m am the Assistant Director of Wildcat Electronic Media, where I help oversee Wildcat 91.9 FM, the student-run radio station at K-State, and Channel 8 News KKSU-TV, where I’ve had the opportunity to create and contribute to award-winning audio and video productions on a state and national level.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications with a minor in Unmanned Aircraft Systems and Leadership from K-State in 2022. My passion for technology extends beyond the classroom—as a licensed Part 107 Remote Pilot I run Wagnair Media, a drone business based in Manhattan, Kansas. Through this venture, I combine my love for media with cutting-edge drone technology to capture unique perspectives and real estate across the Midwest.

Whether it’s through teaching, broadcasting, or flying drones, I’m driven by a desire to tell compelling stories and explore new ways to connect with audiences and educate future generations.

EXPERIENCE

July 2023 - Current

August 2022 - July 2023

January 2022 - August 2023

January 2022 - May 2023

June 2021 - August 2021

August 2019 - December 2021

Assistant Chief Operator at Wildcat 91.9 FM:

Managed daily maintenance and operation of our station's equipment and software, including NexGen, GSelector, and Adobe Audition. Ensure adherence with FCC guidelines and update our Public Issues File annually, alongside maintaining our EAS. Additionally, I had taken over the training of our current exec staff while overseeing the audio production work and interfacing with satellite services like NBC News Radio and PRSS. I handle audio ingestion via FTP using DJB Radio Spider and RCS Audio Format Converter. Distributing content through NexGen Automation and monitoring our station stream with DJB Web Stream Logger while providing basic voice over talent for spots, PSAs, and liners.

Programming Director at Wildcat 91.9 FM:

I was responsible for shaping the station's sound and ensuring it resonates with our audience. I oversaw the creation and scheduling of playlists, shows, and commercials to maintain a balanced mix that captivated our listeners. In addition, I recruited, trained, and managed DJs/on-air personalities to ensure engaging and high-quality broadcasts. Coordinated with underwriters and broadcasters for seamless operations. I also collaborated with the exec staff to brainstorm new program ideas, special events, and promotional activities that enhanced our station's identity and visibility. Through these efforts, I assisted in elevating Wildcat 91.9’s reputation as a leading student-run radio station, winning the Intercollege Broadcasting Systems Best College Radio Station in The Nation Award for 2023.

News Director at Wildcat 91.9:

I led the station's news division, ensuring the delivery of accurate, timely, and engaging news content. My responsibilities included overseeing the development and production of daily news segments and coordinating a team of reporters and editors to cover local, national, and international stories. I managed the editorial calendar, prioritized news coverage based on relevance and audience interest, and guided the news team in conducting thorough research and interviews. Additionally, I collaborated with other exec members to integrate news content into the station's overall programming strategy and digital media footprint.

Wildcat Watch Videographer/Anchor:

I contributed to the creation of video content tailored specifically for the K-State community. My role involved producing a variety of video projects, including live-streamed events, K-State Today Weekly Updates and promotional/highlight videos. I collaborated with student groups and campus organizations to deliver engaging and informative content. I trained younger students to do the same things I had done which helped sharpen my teaching abilities surrounding media and new technologies. This role gave me hands-on experience in video production while developing my skills alongside industry professionals at the Division of Communications and Marketing.

KSNW-TV Internship:

At KSN, I gained valuable experience in the news industry by writing and editing scripts, shadowing producers, and working alongside multimedia journalists (MMJ). This role allowed me to learn the intricacies of news production and reporting, providing me with a comprehensive understanding of the newsroom environment. My responsibilities included assisting in the development of news stories, operating cameras for live shots and observing the workflow of seasoned professionals, which helped enhance my skills in journalism and media production.

KKSU-TV Channel 8 News:

At Channel 8 News, I received comprehensive training in various aspects of news production, including technical directing, producing, reporting and anchoring. My roles involved managing students and overseeing the content they created, ensuring seamless transitions during live broadcasts as tech director and giving feedback to my cohorts every week. I oversaw the entire production process, from story selection to final broadcast, ensuring content was engaging and informative. Additionally, I made content for the MHK All Day broadcasts remotely at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, where I developed news segments, integrating multimedia elements to enhance storytelling. This experience provided me with a solid foundation in journalism and broadcasting, equipping me with the skills necessary to produce high-quality news content.

Freelance Videographer/Drone Pilot:

As a freelance videographer and certified Part 107 drone pilot for Wagnair Media, I specialize in capturing footage for a variety of projects, including real estate videos and weddings. Utilizing advanced drone technology, I produce aerial cinematography that enhances promotional content and events. My role involves collaborating with clients to understand their vision and deliver customized aerial and ground video solutions tailored to their needs. I ensure all operations adhere to FAA regulations and maintain rigorous safety standards during flights. Through Wagnair Media, I combine my passion for technology and storytelling to provide unique perspectives and elevated visual storytelling.

October 2022 - Current

June 2019 - January 2020

New Student Services/Wildcat Warm-Up:

During my time at NSS at Kansas State University I played a crucial role in supporting incoming students through a comprehensive orientation system. As an NSS guide I would give an overview of the campus, including academic buildings, and would help guide students to their breakout sessions where they would connect with other students and learn about K-State. As part of this process, Wildcat Warm-up was a summer orientation designed to immerse new students in the K-State community before classes began. It included a variety of events over the course of the weekend that would acquaint students with traditions and the culture of K-State. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic this has changed to be a part of the K-State Kickoff, which is now incorporated into the Week of Welcome, offering social gatherings and educational activities that provide students with opportunities to build connections and acclimate to university life.

Graduate Teaching Assistant (GTA):

As a GTA in the A.Q. Miller School of Media and Communications at Kansas State University, I have had the opportunity to instruct and assist in a variety of courses, including Public Speaking, Podcasting Essentials, Video Production Essentials, and Audio Production Essentials. My responsibilities include developing lesson plans, delivering lectures in-person and asynchronous, leading hands-on workshops, and facilitating classroom discussions to help students build practical skills in media production and communication. I also provide individualized feedback on assignments, grade coursework, and hold office hours to offer additional support. By collaborating with faculty and engaging with students, I continuously aim to create an enriching learning environment that fosters creativity and technical proficiency in media production.